Pecan Chew
Chewy, nutty pecan candies with caramel-like flavor, perfect for festive occasions and sweet tooth cravings, combining rich pecans, sugary syrup, and creamy milk.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large heavy pot, add all the ingredients.
- Cook to a hard boil stage (260°F) on the stove.
- Quickly add pecans and beat for one minute.
- Pour onto a buttered cookie sheet, filling about two-thirds full.
- Let cool and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Great at Christmastime!
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, make sure the sugar and syrup are fully dissolved before boiling. If you find the mixture too thick, you can add a splash of water to loosen it. For a different flavor, consider using walnuts or almonds instead of pecans. Keep an eye on the temperature to avoid burning; a candy thermometer is helpful for achieving the perfect hard boil stage. This treat is perfect for holiday gatherings and pairs beautifully with Quick Jell-O Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pecan Chews as a delightful sweet treat during the holidays or at parties. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them a great addition to a dessert platter. You can also package them in decorative boxes for gifting. For a festive touch, serve alongside St. Patrick's Day Dessert or other holiday sweets to create a varied dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pecan Chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them, but make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Reheat them in a warm oven for a few minutes if you'd like to soften them slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Chew contains roughly 809 calories, with 7g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Each nut will bring a unique flavor to the Pecan Chews. Just make sure to chop them to a similar size so they mix well with the other ingredients.
What should I do if the mixture doesn't reach the hard boil stage?
If your mixture isn't reaching the hard boil stage, increase the heat slightly and stir frequently to prevent burning. Using a candy thermometer can help you monitor the temperature accurately; the mixture should reach 260°F for the right texture.
How can I tell when the Pecan Chews are ready to cut?
The Pecan Chews are ready to cut once they have cooled sufficiently but are still slightly warm and pliable. You can test by gently pressing the mixture with your finger; it should hold its shape without being too sticky. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).